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Saturday, March 27, 2010

Why Do Cats Purr?

A meow may massage the heart, but a purr absolutely soothes the soul. The cat is the only animal that makes a musical humming sound when it is happy. All cat lovers have enjoyed the blissful moment of a purring lap bound feline. The entire animal vibrates with joy. Purring is usually a sign of cat contentment, but you may be surprised to learn that there are other very different occasions when a cat might purr.

An "origin of purr" investigation yields quite a bit of information, some of it inconclusive. Let's begin with a few expert opinions. According to Leslie Lyons, an assistant professor at the University of California-Davis Veterinary School of Medicine, purring is probably the result of an evolutionary advantage for cats. A recent study from the University of Sussex in England theorizes that the cat's purr may have developed as a way for domesticated cats to obtain food from humans. That makes sense, since most rational human beings can't resist a purring cat. All domestic cats purr, particularly when they are nursing their kittens or as a result of social contact (petting, hugging) from their human companions.

It is interesting to note that other species in the cat family also purr, including the Bobcat, Cheetah, Lynx and Puma. There is some dispute over whether the largest cats such as the tiger, lion and leopard also purr. Most agree that big cats can only purr when exhaling and it is not technically related to a domestic cat purr. Some scientists believe that big cats who vocalize through roaring do not have the ability to purr.

Fast Facts About Cat Purring:

The purr is distinct from other cat vocalizations because it is produced when the cat is both inhaling and exhaling.

The measurable Hertz wave of a cats purr ranges from 25 to 150. At the lower end, a cat's purr has the same vibratory velocity as an idling diesel engine.

There have been many studies about the healing power of the purr. It has been proven to lower blood pressure and alleviate depression. As a result, some friendly and placid cats are very effective "therapy animals" in hospitals or retirement homes.

The frequency of a cat's purr may also promote the healing of bones. Cats suffer less than other animals from osteoarthritis and other bone diseases.

Although we normally assume a cat purrs because they are joyful, there have been many documented incidents where cats purr after being gravely injured or even when they are close to death. Some speculate that this behavior might be related to the healing power of the purr. The purr may release endorphins, which help sooth or calm the cat during her illness. Mom cats will purr as they are giving birth and continue to purr for their kittens as they nurse. Kittens learn to purr days after they are born and may use the sound to bond with their mother. Purring by sick or near death cats may be a last resort stress reducer. It has been suggested that the purr may be like a "mantra" that helps the cat relax. As much as the purr comforts humans, it also calms the kitty who is nervous or in pain.

How Does The Cat Make That Wonderful Noise?

The physiological origin of the purr is also open to debate. It is not being generated exclusively by the vocal chords like a meow or a howl. It is possible that the sound is generated by the hyoid bone, which is a small flexible bone in the cat's neck. When air is pushed through your cat's voice box, it causes the bone to vibrate, releasing that unmistakable sound. Another theory is that the purr is caused by rapid twitching of the muscles in the larynx. A buzzing hum results from the harmonic air vibrations. The only real fact about how a cat's purr is produced is that there really is no iron clad consensus yet. We can put a man on the moon, but the cat's purr is a perfect mystery to science.

How the cat purrs, or why the cat purrs is a fascinating topic. But for cat owners everywhere, the most important point is THAT the cat purrs. Purring is a wonder and a delight, and has undoubtedly contributed towards making the cat the most popular house pet in the world. As humorist and writer Robert Byrne says, "To err is human, to purr is feline."

A VERY SPECIAL PUPThree year old Luke is a total sweetheart. He has never met a person or pet that he didn't love. Luke is eager to please, and he is crate trained. Luke is also deaf, so he will need a fenced yard and someone who will understand his only handicap is his inability to hear. Luke is in a situation a lot like our dog Radar who is blind.Luke needs a home. If you can't adopt, maybe you can sponsor.

Hill's $nub of U.S. companies in purchase of crystal stemware is clear

By GEOFF EARLE Post Correspondent

Last Updated: 9:51 AM, March 15, 2010

Posted: 3:36 AM, March 15, 2010

WASHINGTON --- Hillary Rodham Clinton's State Department is spending $5.4 million to buy fine crystal stemware for American embassies -- but it won't give the US economy much of a boost.

The contract was given to a tiny Washington, DC, interior designer, which in turn subcontracted the crystal work to a Swedish firm -- snubbing such US companies as the famous manufacturer in Clinton's own back yard, Steuben Crystal of upstate Corning.

The firm didn't even get a chance to bid on the contract, which will outfit embassies and ambassadors' residences with fancy crystal for ritzy functions.

Ironically, under the no-bid contract, some of the crystal is to be custom-crafted to include the seal of the United States, although Swedes will do all of the manufacturing.

Contracting rules require any American firms that subcontract work to use a domestic firm or get a waiver.

The firm that got the contract, Systems Design Inc., is a small interior-design firm in tony Georgetown. The company, which is eligible for minority small-business contracts, does not appear to have done any similar work.

After getting the contract in September, the firm subcontracted to Swedish glassmaker Orrefors/Kosta Boda USA.

Department spokesman Darby Holladay said Systems Design couldn't find a domestic producer who could meet the 100 percent lead-free requirement, although a Steuben spokesman said it does manufacture lead-free crystal.

Hey Hounders,

Why not drop an email to your 2 senators and your house congressional representative to ask them about this. It's very easy to do, just google their name to find there contact website. Get involved. Wake up America.

Thanks for the info on purrfect purring! Knew Nothing about this at all, but it was furry interesting to read! BTW, we would LOVE to visit your lake and swim with you! Thanks for the invite! And please join me for swims if you're ever out this way Hounders!!! (And on the flip side, GROSS news about the expenditures on crystal - yet another thing to write Congress about - ugh!)

Off to vote for you - thanks Luke! Have a good weekend!Hugs xoxoxoxoSammie

Thanks for the explanation...we know ntohin about the felines 'cept they make for good chasing:) We're votin' as much as we can here for you and hope Luke gets his furever home soon, he's one good looking pup.

STEP UP TO ADOPT A PET

If you can, please consider opening your home to a homeless animal, preferably a dog or cat or other domesticated animal; livestock does better on farms and wild animals do better in zoos and parks. Your local Humane Society or SPCA or Animal Shelter has a wide selection of could be, should be, pets looking for new homes. If you can't adopt, perhaps you can at least become a sponsor. We'll show you how to help out Almost Heaven Golden Retriever Rescue and Sanctuary (AHGRRS) on our blog page, but you can help out any organization of your choice, but please help; contribute or volunteer.
- The Bumpass Hounds and Kitties

PLEASE HELP SPONSOR A SENIOR OR SPECIAL NEEDS GOLDEN

CAN'T ADOPT; BECOME AN ANGEL.So many Senior and Special Needs Goldens do not find "forever homes". Many of these dogs have above average medical needs and costs, are maintained on "special" diets, or have other extraordinary needs. Your donations can be targeted towards a particular Senior or Special needs Golden Retriever. As a sponsor, you will receive updates about your "special" Golden, and will be mentioned in our quarterly newsletter as the dog's sponsor. We also accept Paypal donations. Please keep in mind that we are a non-profit organization and that your donation is fully tax-deductible. Please just write the Golden's name in the memo line of your check or Paypal submission when sponsoring a Golden Retriever.

THE FIVE BRAVO-ZULU AWARD WINNERS TO DATE ARE:

WE ARE THE BUMPASS HOUNDS AND CATS; ORIGINALLY FROM BUMPASS, VIRGINIA.

As of 11/05/2016, our thundering herd is currently comprised of 7 dogs and 5 kitties;

3 Golden Retrievers (Shelby, Tre', & Finnegan),

1 Yellow Labrador Retriever Rescue (Abbey),

1 Golden Retriever/Chow mix Rescue (Patti),

1 Landseer Newfoundland Dog (Max),

1 Black Flat Coated Retriever Rescue (Charlie),

1 Maine Coon Cat (Boru),

1 American Tortie "Ragamuffin" Cat Rescue (Jenny),

1 dark gray Asian cat Rescue (Gracie),

1 Siamese Blue Point cat Rescue (Lily), &

1 "somethingorother" short hair cat Recue (Yeti);

all trying to get along together and make it through another day. A testimonial to love freely given and graciously shared among us all. In September 2012, the Bumpass Hounds & Kitties all moved from Bumpass, VA (from whence we got our Blog Tag) to Lake Wales, FL but we're still the Bumpass Hounds (and Kitties).

About us: THE BUMPASS HOUNDS

THE BUMPASS HOUNDS AND KITTIES (10/05/12): Jubal, 12 year old Golden Retriever, the senior member of the pack; Sophie, 9 year old Golden Retriever (Rescue); Shelby, 8 year old Golden Retriever; Jack, 7 year old Golden Retriever (Rescue); Abby, 6 year old Yellow Labrador / Golden Retriever mix (Rescue); Max, 5 year old Landseer (Newfoundland Dog); Patti, 2 year old Australian Shepherd / Golden Retriever mix (Rescue); Charlie, a 1 year old black Flat Coated Retriever (Rescue); Alex and Boru, 8 year old Maine Coon cats; Jenny, an 8 year old rescued tortie Ragamuffin cat; Gracie, a 2 year old rescued short hair Asaian mix cat; and Lily, a 1 year old Siamese Blue Point cat. The Bumpass Hounds rescues dogs come from Almost Heaven Golden Retriever Rescue & Sanctuary in Delray, WV.

THE BUMPASS HOUNDS FAMILY PORTRAIT - NOVEMBER 2007

JEB - Homer - Jubal - Shelby - Abby - Jack - Max & Gordon

WHERE'S BUMPASS?

Along the southeast shore of Lake Anna, Virginia. Click on the above photo and open in a new tab or window for a visual map. You can view "Lake Anna Connections" at: http://www.lakeannaconnections.com/

THE BUMPASS HOUNDS and KITTIES (TBH&K)

These postings are about the life and times of a group of cats and dogs living in the bustling metropolis of beautiful downtown Bumpass, Virginia, along scenic Lake Anna. Their origins and the relationships among themselves and their human custodians. Sometimes happy, often hysterical, and sometimes sad; just as life can be.You can help save a life at Almost Heaven Golden Retriever Rescue.http://www.almostheaven-golden-retriever-rescue.org/They savedGordie, Abby,Homer, Sophie, Radar, Charlie,andPatti,who all came to be Bumpass Hounds. Please "click" on the AHGRR Website in our Link List in the right margin just below. You can click on this site to see some of the dogs waiting at AHGRR for somebody just like you to take them to their happily furever home. http://www.almostheaven-golden-retriever-rescue.org/doglist.html. Shilohwill kiss you if you do. It's our "lick for a click" gimmick. Drool's cool.-Jubal -J.E.B. - Sophie -Shelby- Abby- Jack- Max- Shiloh -Radar- Patti- Charlie (Woof!)Boru - Alex - Jenny - Gracie- Lily(Meow!)

JUBAL - OVER THE RAINBOW

Village Canine Good Citizen

SOPHIE - OVER THE RAINBOW

Our former "Foster" Girl

Shelby

Village Princess

Abby (AHGRR&S RESCUE)

Village Busybody

JACK - OVER THE RAINBOW

Village Enforcer

Max (Brutus Maximus)

Village Watchdog

Patti (AHGRR&S RESCUE)

Happy Yappy

Charlie (AHGRR&S RESCUE)

The Black Sheep of the Family

ALEX - OVER THE RAINBOW

Big Al

Boru

Boogers Boru

Jenny (RESCUE)

Jen-Jen

Gracie (RESCUE)

NAFOD - No Apparent Fear Of Death

Lily (RESCUE)

Mom's shadow

Shiloh (RESCUE) - ADOPTED

Village Greeter

BEAR - OVER THE RAINBOW

Bear - OBD (Old Bear Dog) Our 1st Rescue Dog

KODI - OVER THE RAINBOW

Kodi - Ann Marie's Original Lubby

RUSTY - OVER THE RAINBOW

Rusty - Our First Dog

PENNY - OVER THE RAINBOW

Penny - Our Sweet Girl

CHANCE - OVER THE RAINBOW

Chance - One Man's Very Best Friend (Click photo & help fight cancer in Goldens)

GOLDEN HONEY - AT THE RAINBOW BRIDGE

CHANDLER - OVER THE RAINBOW

THE LUKE - OVER THE RAINBOW

Golden Boy, Lucky Luke, has crossed The Rainbow Bridge. He will be missed. He is a most loved dog.

THE BLEU - OVER THE RAINBOW

Playing with The Luke

THE LATE GREAT GORDIE WONDERDOG

WE ALL MISS GORDON

GORDON - A GREAT RESCUE

Gordon was abandoned by his "life long" owner at about age 7 when he was found to be going blind. He was rescued from an Atlanta area shelter by Carol and Skip at Almost Heaven Golden Retriever Rescue & Sanctuary. He joined our pack as a "special needs" dog, totally blind with two detached retinas, but it turned out his only real need was a loving home. He thrived within the pack and lived 15+ years. He was a beloved "Bumpass Hound." We lost Gordie, very unexpectedly, to cancer in January '08. We all miss him terribly, especially the girls, Shelby and Abby, by whom he was fussed over much like a grandfather. We were truly blessed and priviledged to be allowed to have Gordon live with us as a Bumpass Hound.

LISTEN UP PEOPLE (AND ANIMALS)

RIGHT CLICK ON MY PICTURE, OPEN IN A NEW TAB. NOW! GOT IT?

ALMOST HEAVEN GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE & SANCTUARY

CLICK ON LOGO TO LEARN MORE

PLEASE SHARE A LITTLE, OR A LOT WITH AHGRR; NO DONATION IS TOO SMALL TO HELP.

PLEASE, GIVE JUST ONE DOLLAR IF YOU CAN.

WE PARTICIPATED IN TWINKIE'S 2010 GLOBAL ANIMAL BLOGGING EVENT

WE MET LOTS OF NEW BLOGGER BUDDIES.

POPLAR SPRINGS ANIMAL SANCTUARY

Poplar Springs, a 501(c)3 charitabil organization, provides a safe, loving home for neglected, qbused or abandoned farm animals. Animals are referred to the sanctuary by humane societies who have confiscated them from cruelty cases or have rescued them from abandonment. Aftern their arrival they are provided with veterinary care, nourishing food and a warm shelter. All sanctuary animals are permanent residents who are allowed to live out their natural lives in peace. www.animalsanctuary.org

"The Animals' Saviour" - Copyright Jim Willis 1999

I looked at all the caged animals in the shelter...the cast-offs of human society. I saw in their eyes love and hope, fear and dread, sadness and betrayal. And I was angry. "God," I said, "this is terrible! Why don't you do something?" God was silent for a moment and then He spoke softly. "I have done something," He replied. "I created You."

POOP ON CANCER

CLICK PHOTO TO HELP

CANCER KILLS GOLDENS

AVMA's 10 Warning Signs of Canine Cancer: 1 Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow2 Sores that do not heal3 Weight loss4 Loss of appetite5 Bleeding or discharge from any body opening6 Offensive odor7 Difficulty eating or swallowing8 Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina9 Persistent lameness or stiffness10 Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating

GOLDEN INSPIRATION

CLICK ON PHOTO

HAPPY HEARTS DOG COOKIES

Home Made with Home Love

DINOVITE - WORKING WONDERS FOR DOGS

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

STOP IN THE NAME OF LOVE

WATCH THESE VIDEOS AND JOIN THE FIGHT AGAINST CRUELTY TO ANIMALS. JUST CLICK ON THE LOGO.

WATCH THE RESCUE

CLICK ON THE PUP

PETFINDER

PETFINDER not only has lists of specific pets available for adoption near you but it is also a plethora of other great information, hints and tips about pet ownership. Check it out by clicking the Petfinder logo. - TBH (Hey Homer J. What's "plethora" mean? Is it like a "myriad?")

WE WON THE GOLDEN AWARD

I LOVE DOGS AWARD

THE PINK ROSES AWARD

From Joey: Pink Roses are given to all friends out there, bringing them a sweet and fruitful day. Those who receive these roses as a gift, you need to pass it on to 10 friends of yours to show them you care. And of course, for those who received the roses, that's to show that you're never forgotten.

YOUR BLOG IS FABULOUS AWARD

From Joey and other Blog Buddies

LIFE IS GRAND AWARD

From Joey with 5 Reasons Life Is Grand

CATS WITH OLDER PEOPLE

Wake up. The cat's got your teeth.

ARMY OF FOUR

DEVOTED TO DOGS

Click here to read Sarah Ferrell's newspaper column on How to be Your Dog's Best Owner.

COMMENTS WELCOME - PLEEZ SIGN OUR GUEST BOOK

Pleez sign our guest book (up at the top of the page post section) and leave us your picture! Just click on our Guest Book. You can also leave your comments on our postings. Simply click on "comments" at the bottom of the posting on which you'd like to comment. If you leave a return e-mail address with your comment, we'll be glad to reply to any questions or comments. Homer is the village elder and he knows the most stuff so he'll probably have an answer. DROOL IS COOL